How to Honor a Deceased Loved One at Your Wedding

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life and although nothing could replace your loved one being present, we’ve brainstormed a few ways you can honor them on your day.

Reserve a seat for them

Leaving a seat empty in the front row and placing a photo of them on the chair is a great way to make them feel like they are still a part of your day. You can personalize it by laying one of their jackets on the chair or an old hat, something that can make them feel even more present.

Incorporate them into your wedding attire

Get a broach that has their photo on it and tie it into your bouquet or if you’re wearing a suit, wear a pocket square that belonged to them. You can wear jewelry that belonged to them or put one of their handkerchiefs in your bouquet.

Moment of silence

If you want to honor your loved one out of the public eye, set aside a minute of the day where you can take a moment of silence for them and make it personal between just you and them.

Honor them in your wedding program

If you are having a wedding program, write a short passage or message that will honor them. All of your guests will be able to read it!

Play a song

Play a song that everybody can remember them by! Whether it be the song you walk down the aisle to or a song that everybody can dance to.

Incorporate their favorite food or drink

If they had a favorite go to cocktail or drink, put a special one on the menu in their honor. If they loved to bake or cook, incorporate that dessert or dish into your night!

Sew a picture or note of theirs to your dress

On the inside of your dress, get a photo or note made into a piece of cloth that can be sewn onto your gown. This is such a great way to keep them close!

Display photos of them at the reception

A simple and great way to honor them at your wedding for everyone to see is to make a display or hang photos that people can remember them by at your reception. Include a quote or a sign by them!

There are so many ways to remember the loved ones we have lost and ways to honor them on this amazing day but by no means should you feel obligated to do so. This is your day— honor them (or not) in whatever way feels best for you.

Stephanie Keegan

I’m an adventure elopement and wedding photographer based in Seattle and the surrounding Pacific Northwest. I focus on capturing love in beautiful places while sharing a passion for the outdoors. Rock climbing, backpacking, hiking – I love it all!